In a shocking development, Tigran Gambaryan, an executive of cryptocurrency exchange Binance, collapsed in court during his ongoing money laundering trial in Abuja. The incident occurred at the Federal High Court, where Gambaryan, along with Nadeem Anjarwalla, is facing charges of laundering over $35 million. Both executives have pleaded not guilty, and the trial was adjourned to allow Gambaryan to receive medical treatment due to his deteriorating health.
The courtroom drama unfolded when Gambaryan, the head of financial crimes compliance at Binance, did not immediately step forward to the dock when the case was called. He collapsed on his way to the dock and had to be helped to the front row by his lawyer. Gambaryan’s lawyer informed the court of his client’s health condition, stating that he had been indisposed and required medical attention. Since February, Gambaryan’s health issues have reportedly worsened, leading to his absence from a tax evasion trial held the day before.
Judge Emeka Nwite ruled that Gambaryan should receive treatment at the hospital recommended by his lawyer or prison authorities. The trial has been adjourned to June 20 and 21 to allow Gambaryan to receive medical treatment. The case has attracted attention, especially in light of Nigeria’s economic challenges. The country has accused Binance of contributing to its currency woes by trading the Nigerian naira amid severe dollar shortages and a plummeting currency.
The Federal Inland Revenue Service has also filed tax evasion charges against Binance Holdings Limited and Gambaryan. However, the trial could not proceed due to Gambaryan’s absence, leading to its postponement to June 14. Gambaryan, who is reportedly held at Kuje Prison, did not appear for his scheduled arraignment, causing confusion among the lawyers. The prosecution and defense argued over the failure to ensure Gambaryan’s presence, leading to the adjournment of the trial.
Anjarwalla, another executive involved in the case, escaped custody in March but has not been officially marked as “at large.” This could complicate proceedings, as Nigerian law requires all parties to be served for the case to move forward. Gambaryan’s absence from the arraignment session has highlighted procedural issues, with his lawyer arguing that the prosecution should have ensured his presence given his federal custody status. The trial has been adjourned to allow Gambaryan to receive medical treatment, and it remains to be seen how the case will proceed in light of these developments.
